The migration debate in Germany is heating up, with Green Party manager Irene Mihalic accusing Friedrich Merz, leader of the Union parliamentary group, of attempting to extort his participation in migration talks. Mihalic criticizes Merz for demanding the rejection of all those without a residence permit, including asylum seekers.
In response, Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has ordered the expansion of border controls to enable a massive expansion of refugee rejections. Faeser justifies this as a tough stance against irregular migration and protection against terrorism and serious crime.
The goal is to reach a consensus on migration policy. Merz, on the other hand, wants written assurances from the government on comprehensive border rejections before entering further discussions.
The debates have led to an increase in border controls at all German land borders, with Austria refusing to take in rejected refugees. The CDU and CSU are open to tightening migration laws, while the SPD supports Faeser's plans.
The situation has caused tension within the Ampel coalition, and the opposition parties are calling for stricter measures. The government's actions are seen as a response to the rise of anti-immigrant parties and recent attacks by rejected asylum seekers.
